Greylock Federal awards $100K in Special Gifts To Nonprofits

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(left to right) Johno Hinkell, Vice President, Market Manager at Greylock; Amy Hall, President and CEO and Billie Jo Sawyer, CFO of Child Care of the Berkshires; and Jamie Moncecchi, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer at Greylock.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. Greylock Federal Credit Union is awarding 10 nonprofits with special gifts of $10,000 each totaling a $100,000 contribution to the nonprofit sector.
 
The recipients include: Elder Services of Berkshire County, Louison House, Childcare of the Berkshires, Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires (VIM), Arts in Recovery for Youth (AIRY), Soldier On, Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood, Our Community Table, UCP of Western Massachusetts and Berkshire Pride.
 
"At Greylock we know that the challenges and opportunities that we face are larger than we can tackle on our own, and we are grateful to have wonderful partners," said John Bissell, President and CEO of Greylock. "Together we can nurture the health of our local economy and community – that's what it means to be financially inclusive. We invest in these partner organizations so they can do their work investing in the people of our community."
 
Greylock's leadership recognized the importance of awarding funds to organizations dedicated to providing human services.
 
"We know that this year and next will be extremely challenging for nonprofits," said Jamie Moncecchi, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer. "We know that this award will be put to good use, providing essential resources, care, and support for the well-being of our community."
 
Ilana Steinhauer, executive director of VIM, acknowledged current challenges.
 
"This generous support from Greylock comes at a critical moment. It allows us to respond to emerging needs and ensure that patients who might otherwise fall through the cracks can continue to access high-quality care," said Steinhauer. "Greylock has been an important partner in strengthening the health of our community, and this gift reflects a shared commitment to care without compromise."
 
Each year Greylock Federal gives charitable contributions to more than 300 501(c)3 nonprofits that apply for grants and sponsorships annually.
 
"We are so thankful for all our nonprofits in our community. We know the needs are growing rapidly," said Jennifer Connor Shumsky, Assistant Vice President, Community Support & Events. "To have more funding to disperse is fantastic! I am so grateful that we've been able to give an additional gift to help our local economy."
 
Amy Hall, president and CEO of Child Care of the Berkshires, was delighted to receive the unexpected gift from Greylock.
 
"What a wonderful surprise! This support will make a meaningful difference in our ability to serve and strengthen families through our Family Center program. Thank you," said Hall. 
 
According to a press release, investing in community partnerships aligns closely with Greylock's vision to be "the face of financial inclusion for the communities we serve," and its values to care, educate and inspire.
 
"I am so proud of the work we do here at Greylock," said Moncecchi. "Supporting these vital organizations is key to supporting the Berkshires. Whether it's AIRY helping youth at risk of suicide or Elder Services making sure our seniors have a hot meal each day or VIM caring for our immigrant neighbors, we believe strongly in giving back. This is one of the most powerful ways that Greylock can help the people of our community."

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Second Streets Second Chances Awarded $85K for Workforce Re-Entry Program

By Brittany Polito

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A local program for formerly incarcerated citizens seeking a technical career received $85,000 from the state.  

On Thursday, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $2.25 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration Program grants to 12 organizations that will provide job training, career support, and employment opportunities to 445 formerly incarcerated individuals returning to their communities.

Second Street Second Chances was allocated $84,712 to partner with the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office to offer a training program to 12 returning citizens with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry.  

The funds will be used to put 12 returning citizens through a training program with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry. Successful program graduates will be placed in manufacturing and welding roles at Onyx Specialty Papers and Hi-Tech Mold and Tool.

The program was one of 12 awardees, a majority on the eastern side of the state; Greenfield also saw funding.

"When people return to their communities, they should have a real opportunity to get a good job, support their families and build a stable future," said Gov. Maura Healey in a press release. 

"These grants connect people with the training and experience they need to succeed and with employers that are ready to hire."

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said successful reentry means making sure people have the tools and opportunities to move forward, and these programs bring together community organizations, public safety partners, and employers to connect people directly with training and jobs. 

Launched in 2022, Second Street Second Chances' mission is to provide a central point of access for medical and mental health, housing, job training, legal services, and more for a successful reentry into the community. 

Early this year, the nonprofit saw an $89,000 grant from the program.  Executive Director Lindsay Cornwell at the time said this funding allowed 2nd Street to expand its mission of supporting returning citizens in Berkshire County through meaningful workforce opportunities and a pathway toward sustainable employment. 

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